Staff Spotlight: Celebrating Maddy’s 1-Year Workaversary!

This month, we’re celebrating Madeline “Maddy”, who recently marked her first anniversary with USO Hawaiʻi! Originally from Fort Campbell, Maddy joined the USO team bringing her barista’s heart for people and connection—something that quickly became the foundation of her work at USO Schofield Barracks. Like many military spouses, Maddy has navigated the ups and downs of military life—frequent trainings and deployments often meant long stretches of loneliness. But when she found the USO, she found a new kind of family. “I love everything about what I do. My job matters, and everything I do counts,” Maddy shared. “The USO has given me so much—I’ve grown a lot and I’ve worked with some of the best people I’ve ever met.” From day one, Maddy hit the ground running—bringing joy to the Schofield Barracks community through programs and events that connect service members and families. What started as small, cozy gatherings quickly grew into larger community favorites, like the Richardson Pool Party. “At first, I thought the USO was just for printing and coffee,” she laughs. “But it’s so much more than that. Even outside of programs, it’s about making people feel comfortable—it’s like family.” Over the past year, Maddy has watched countless moments of connection unfold. “Sometimes other people’s only interaction with someone is when they come into the USO,” she said. “When they tell me they came out of the house because of a USO event, or shared it with their families—that’s when I know I’m making a difference.” Her favorite part of the job? The people. “I never feel like I’m under a lot of pressure—everyone is so supportive. This is the first job where I’ve stayed and learned about myself day by day. Even on the chaotic days, I don’t mind. I show up because I want to.” Maddy is currently pursuing her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, applying those skills to make USO programming even stronger. Her goal is simple but powerful: to make sure every person who walks into the center feels seen, welcomed, and cared for. “I wish I had sought out the USO sooner,” she reflected. “You just can’t be by yourself all the time. We’re a space where people can hang out, make friends, and relax—no pressure. I just hope that when people see me, they know I care a lot and that I’ll always make a space for them.” Her manager, Evon, Center Operations Manager at USO Schofield Barracks, shared her perspective on Maddy’s journey: “Over the past year, Maddy has handled everything that’s come her way at the USO with a great attitude and steady focus. From tech hiccups during her interview to managing a literal fire at her first event, she’s stayed calm, positive, and ready to learn. Watching her grow from a Starbucks barista supervisor to a Center Operations Specialist has been a real pleasure. She jumped into the role before even settling into her new home—classic military spouse move, showing her ability to adapt quickly and get things done. Maddy brings fresh energy to our programming, always looking for ways to make events fun and engaging for our community. Her upbeat personality is a boost to the team, and she’s become a familiar and welcome face at the center. We’re lucky to have her here at USO Schofield Barracks. I can see her continuing to grow and eventually stepping into a Program Manager role or any position within the USO.” Happy Workaversary, Maddy! Your passion, creativity, and heart make the USO Hawaiʻi ‘ohana shine brighter every day.